In a resolute declaration, General Romeo Brawner Jr., the head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), has vowed to ensure the safety and orderliness of the upcoming midterm elections. Speaking at a joint press conference at the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, Brawner emphasized the military’s dedication to a secure electoral process. He encouraged Filipinos to cast their votes for candidates committed to serving the nation and its people.
The press conference, also attended by Commission on Elections (Comelec) chair George Erwin Garcia and PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil, saw all three agencies reaffirm their commitment to a peaceful and well-managed election on May 2025, covering national, local, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao parliamentary elections. The AFP stated that comprehensive security measures are in place to protect the integrity of the voting process.
Brawner highlighted the AFP’s preparedness to deploy personnel and resources for election duties, underscoring the significance of the Joint Security Control Centers in enhancing coordination among the AFP, PNP, and Comelec.
Addressing concerns about political instability, Brawner dismissed the notion of a military coup or junta as a solution to societal problems, urging citizens to trust in the democratic process and use the elections to voice their aspirations and concerns. He stressed that elections are the key to societal change and progress, encouraging voters to select leaders who will address national issues.
To further ensure the integrity of the elections, the AFP has intensified its intelligence gathering efforts. According to Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, head of the AFP public affairs office, this initiative is designed to assist the Comelec in safeguarding the electoral process and national security, focusing on identifying potential threats from foreign interference and malign influence. Trinidad emphasized that the AFP’s role is strictly non-partisan, with efforts rooted in impartiality and respect for democracy.